Is landlord responsible for mold after storm in Al Barsha?« Back to Previous Page

The landlord is responsible for remedying this issue. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are obligated to maintain the property's structural integrity and ensure it is habitable. The mold on the back wall is a structural dampness problem, likely stemming from water intrusion through the external wall during the storm, which is the landlord's responsibility to repair.

Their claim about AC usage is a common misconception. While running AC helps manage indoor humidity, it cannot compensate for active water ingress from a leak or compromised building envelope. The storm event is a clear indicator of an external defect. The persistent damp smell on your clothes confirms the mold is actively growing due to moisture, not just condensation.

You should formally notify the landlord in writing (email is best) with clear photos of the mold and a description of the damp smell, reiterating that the issue began after the storm. Request a professional inspection to identify the moisture source—this is crucial, as simply cleaning the visible mold will not stop it from returning if the leak isn't fixed.

For a case of this severity with visible spreading, a professional assessment is strongly advised to document the root cause and extent of the contamination. The remediation process should involve fixing the water leak, properly removing the mold, and treating the area to prevent recurrence. Keep records of all communication, as you may need to escalate to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai if the landlord remains uncooperative.